SHELBY COUNTY, Tenn. — Shelby County Schools is giving students an opportunity to help them build their at-home libraries.
On Saturday, October 30, the district will host its 3rd annual free drive-thru book giveaway from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at 160 S. Hollywood St. The giveaway is for students in Pre-K through 5th grade.
School district leaders said the goal of the event is to help provide awareness, support and resources that enhance student reading comprehension.
“When we talk about literacy being life, it’s more important than ever that our students and our families are engaged," Jerica Phillips, Shelby County Schools Chief Communications Officer, said. "They’re getting books. They’re creating their at-home libraries. We want to ensure that every student has an opportunity, regardless of zip code, to get a high-quality education.”
Free goody bags will also be able for students in Pre-K through 5th grade while supplies last.
SCS said the giveaway was made possible by donations from International Paper and Literacy Mid-South.
Improving literacy scores has become a top priority for the district and Superintendent Dr. Joris Ray.
According to the district, at the end of 2018, only 27% of SCS third grade students were proficient on the TNReady English Language Arts assessment.
On Thursday, district leaders will also participate in the National Read for the Record event which brings people all over the world together to read the same book, on the same day, to raise awareness about importance of early literacy.
That event will begin at 10 a.m. at Robert R. Church Elementary.